Antigua Travel Guide
Guatemala's colonial gem
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Located in the central highlands of Guatemala, Antigua is famous for its well-preserved Spanish Mudéjar-influenced Baroque architecture as well as a number of spectacular ruined churches. It is one of the best conserved colonial cities and has deservedly been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled majestically between three dramatic volcanoes; Agua, Fuego and Acatenango, this captivating small town is filled with colonial architecture, cobbled streets, stunning monasteries, convents and cathedrals. Being one of the oldest and best-preserved Latin American cities, the city is one place not to miss.
La Antigua Guatemala means the "Old Guatemala" and was founded by Spanish conquistadors as the third capital of Guatemala in 1543. Named as Santiago de los Caballeros it served as the seat of the military governor of the Spanish colony of Guatemala for more than 200 years.
In 1773, much of the town was destroyed by a series of earthquakes, which led to the Spanish Crown moving its capital to a safer location; where Guatemala City now stands. The badly damaged city that was left behind was abandoned, and was referred to as La Antigua Guatemala, or Old Guatemala.
Today, the whole city of Antigua is full of historic buildings, monuments and ruins such as La Catedral and el Palacio de los Gobernadores, which are overlooked by the constantly active Pacaya Volcano.
Attractions in Antigua
The Pacaya volcano at 8,371 feet is possibly the most climbed volcano in Guatemala and is popular with volcano enthusiasts due to its constant activity.
Sits of notable interest are La Catedral, el Palacio de los Gobernadores, Convento de Capuchinas, Convento de Santa Clara, el Arco de Santa Catarina, Iglesia La Merced and the Handicrafts Market.
An enjoyable but moderately strenuous 30 minute walk from the Parque Central will take you to a large cross on a hill to the north of the city, the Cerro de la cruz. From here there is a stunning view over most of Antigua and the Volcan de Agua to the south.
At San Juan Comalapa, close to Chimaltenango, there is a fantastic market on Tuesdays, where local people bring their produce to sell and the village is busy with activity.
Guatemalan coffee is revered as one of the most palatable in the world. The growing regions vary in their potential quality and Antigua’s are well-known and highly rated. Coffee farms or estates in the Antigua valley grow a variety of coffees including Yellow Bourbon coffee which has a unique character.
Activities in Antigua
Spend 2 or 3 days exploring the city and the surrounding area. For the more adventurous, hiking trips up the active Volcan Pacaya and the dormant Volcan Acatenango are highly recommended.
Relaxing
The Parque Central in the centre of town has circular walkways meandering among the trees, a fountain in the centre and plenty of benches for sitting and people-watching.
Getting Around
Antigua is very compact and easy to walk around. Alternatively tuk-tuks and taxis can take you to destinations within the city centre.
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